Which negative effect might result from unresolved conflict in a workplace?

Unresolved conflict in the workplace can lead to decreased employee engagement, which is reflected in the answer chosen. When conflicts are not addressed, they often create a toxic work environment where employees feel anxious, undervalued, or demotivated. This emotional strain can reduce their commitment to the organization and its goals, resulting in lower participation in team activities and a general withdrawal from contributing effectively.

In contrast, productivity may actually decline due to distractions caused by unresolved conflicts, as employees may spend time avoiding interactions with colleagues rather than focusing on their tasks. Team dynamics could also suffer, as unresolved issues can lead to divisions within the team, eroding trust and collaboration rather than strengthening them. Lastly, communication tends to break down when conflicts persist, as employees may become reluctant to share ideas or feedback, further reducing engagement and overall workplace effectiveness. Therefore, the impact of unresolved conflict primarily highlights the importance of proactively managing conflicts to maintain a motivated and engaged workforce.